Making Art From Shavings

By Jill Harness

Usually, pencil shavings are a mere byproduct of artwork made with pencils, but artist Marta Altes knows that just because most people throw something away doesn't mean you can't make art out of it.
That's why she started saving her shavings in order to turn them into delightful and whimsical creations as part of her ongoing "Playing With Pencil Shavings" series. From surfers hanging ten on waves of wood to bullfighters dancing with capes of frayed pencil pieces, the works are all familiar, creative and playful—a delightful combination that people of all ages can enjoy.